The sound of sneakers squeaking on the gym floor, the thud of a volleyball being passed back and forth and the occasional burst of laughter fill the air. Junior varsity volleyball head coach and math teacher Pauline Mendoza stands courtside, offering quick words of encouragement to her players before competing in the California Interscholastic Federation Southern Section Division Six Championship final.
While coaching was not initially a part of her plan, Mendoza seized a coaching opportunity after varsity head coach Katie Meier reached out to her. However, coaching came with a new set of challenges for Mendoza. Since it was her first year in the Walnut district and a new junior varsity coach, Mendoza struggled with balancing her time management and organization.
Despite being a volleyball coach, Mendoza grew up playing soccer. She eventually shifted to volleyball at Suzanne Middle School, picking up the sport at age 11. She continued playing throughout Walnut High School, serving as a middle blocker. Although she did not have a competitive college career, Mendoza stayed involved in volleyball through intramural leagues.
“Since I had many great experiences and coaches as a [player], I wanted to help others have the same positive environment and player development,” Mendoza said. “So far, coaching has been very rewarding, as I get to watch my players succeed and grow as people.”
